Although the walk down the aisle is only a short distance, your wedding day will be more of a marathon than a sprint. Proper sustenance is in order the morning of your marriage to ensure you don’t wobble or shake—save that for the dance floor during the wedding reception at the end of the day!
Kayley George, Bells and Barbell’s registered dietitian, is helping us meal planning tips as if we are getting married at 3 p.m. She already gave us recommendations geared towards the healthy, standard American diet. But today, we are embark on new territory as she gives us low-carb recommendations, fit for Paleo, Keto, or you girlies who just choose to go gluten-free.
“The smartest thing you can do in preparing for your wedding day is to plan your low-carb meals so that you aren’t tempted to skip out or indulge in the wrong foods. If you’ve been consistent with your lower carbohydrate intake leading up to the wedding, it’s important to keep that pattern going on the big day,” George says. “Throwing your carb intake off at the last minute can be detrimental to your water weight, mental stamina, and blood sugar levels, just to name a few. Fueling properly will give you plenty of energy for busting moves on the dance floor with all of your new family.”
8 a.m.: Scrambled eggs with a side of berries
“A quick, easy breakfast that is low-carb but still nutrient-dense is scrambled eggs. One or two eggs will provide you with protein, healthy fats, iron, and vitamins while staying minimal on carbs,” George says. “Feel free to add in your favorite veggies to add an extra nutrient and flavor boost. Adding a side of berries—any kind that you enjoy—will support your mental clarity and energy levels throughout the big day.”
12 p.m.: Salad with plenty of veggies and chopped-up chicken
“A hearty salad filled with your favorite veggies, about 4 ounces of chicken breast, and a light vinaigrette dressing is an easy option. Make sure to go light on the dressing so you don’t overdo the heavy fats on your stomach,” George says. “Prepping the salad can be as simple as throwing some pre-chopped veggies on a bed of spinach and heating up some pre-cooked chicken. The chicken will provide protein to keep you full, while the veggies will give your body the vitamins and nutrients it needs to feel and look radiant.”
2 p.m.: A handful of nuts
“In the final hour before you walk down the aisle, don’t ignore your body’s signs that it needs more fuel. A handful of almonds is a travel-friendly and low-carb snack that you can munch on quickly as the ceremony gets closer,” George says. “For only 1/4 cup of nuts, you’ll give your body nearly 200 calories worth of protein and healthy fats—with only 10 grams of carbs—to sustain you until dinner.”
